TMJ Rehab

What is TMJ?
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which connects your jawbone to your skull. This joint allows for essential functions such as chewing, talking, and swallowing. However, when the TMJ becomes injured or misaligned, it can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, neck, and even the shoulders. Conditions affecting the TMJ are commonly referred to as TMJ disorders or TMD (temporomandibular dysfunction).

What Causes TMJ Disorders?
TMJ disorders can result from a variety of causes, including:

• Jaw injury or trauma

• Teeth grinding or jaw clenching

• Poor posture, especially neck and upper back alignment

• Stress and anxiety

• Arthritis or inflammation

• Misalignment of the teeth or bite (malocclusion)

Symptoms of TMJ disorders may include:

• Jaw pain or tenderness

• Difficulty chewing or opening your mouth

• Clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw

• Headaches, neck, and shoulder pain

• Facial swelling or a feeling of fullness in the jaw area

How Physiotherapy Can Help with TMJ Disorders
At Holistic Medical Clinic, our experienced physiotherapists provide specialized rehabilitation for TMJ disorders to help alleviate pain, improve jaw mobility, and restore function. Physiotherapy for TMJ aims to address the root causes of your symptoms and helps you manage them effectively.

Benefits of TMJ Rehabilitation:

1. Pain Relief:
   Our physiotherapists use hands-on techniques like manual therapy, myofascial release, and soft tissue mobilization to help reduce pain and discomfort in the jaw, neck, and surrounding muscles.

2. Improved Jaw Mobility:
   TMJ dysfunction often leads to restricted jaw movement. We provide specific exercises to improve the range of motion in your jaw, making it easier to open your mouth and chew without pain or difficulty.

3. Muscle Relaxation and Strengthening:
   Teeth grinding or jaw clenching often leads to muscle tension around the jaw. Physiotherapists guide you through relaxation techniques and targeted strengthening exercises to reduce muscle stiffness and prevent future tension.

4. Posture Correction:
   Poor posture, especially in the neck and upper back, can contribute to TMJ pain. Our physiotherapists assess your posture and recommend adjustments to help relieve stress on the jaw and improve overall alignment.

5. Stress Management:
   Since stress is a common trigger for TMJ disorders, we provide techniques to manage stress, including relaxation exercises, breathing techniques, and recommendations for reducing jaw clenching or grinding during the night.

6. Personalized Treatment Plans:
   We understand that each patient’s TMJ issues are unique. That’s why we tailor your rehabilitation plan based on your specific symptoms, needs, and goals to ensure the most effective treatment.

What to Expect During TMJ Rehabilitation:

• Initial Assessment:
  The first step in your treatment is a thorough assessment. Our physiotherapist will evaluate your jaw function, posture, and muscle strength to determine the cause of your symptoms. They may also ask about your daily habits, stress levels, and any potential factors contributing to your TMJ disorder.

• Hands-On Treatment:
  Based on the assessment, the physiotherapist will use various techniques such as joint mobilization, soft tissue therapy, and trigger point release to address pain and stiffness in the jaw and surrounding muscles.

• Exercises and Home Care:
  Your physiotherapist will teach you specific exercises to improve jaw mobility, strengthen muscles, and reduce tension. They may also recommend lifestyle adjustments, such as using a nightguard, stress-reduction techniques, and postural improvements.

• Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments:
  Your progress will be monitored throughout your treatment, and the physiotherapist will make adjustments to your rehabilitation plan as necessary. The goal is to help you regain full function and reduce the likelihood of future flare-ups.

If you’re experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or other TMJ-related symptoms, don’t wait to seek help. Contact us today to schedule an assessment and begin your journey to recovery with TMJ rehabilitation at Holistic Medical Clinic.